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Gyeongbokgung Palace
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
poi · KR

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Getting around: Take Metro Line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station, Exit 5, which leads directly to the palace's main entrance area.
Hours: Typically open Wednesday-Monday, 9am-6pm (extended in summer), closed Tuesdays.

Gyeongbokgung is the largest and grandest of Seoul's five Joseon-dynasty palaces, originally built in 1395 as the primary royal residence, though most of what stands today is 19th-century reconstruction following its destruction during the Japanese invasions and later occupation. Its scale is the main draw — sprawling courtyards, the iconic Gyeonghoeru pavilion set on a lake, and the National Folk Museum within the grounds.

The changing of the royal guard ceremony, held at the main gate several times daily, is a popular free spectacle, and renting a hanbok nearby (which grants free palace admission) is an extremely common activity for both Korean and international visitors.

Gyeongbokgung Palace FAQs

Is it free if I wear a hanbok?

Yes, visitors wearing traditional hanbok generally receive free admission to Gyeongbokgung and several other palaces, a popular reason to rent one nearby.

What's the changing of the guard ceremony?

A reenactment of the traditional royal guard changing, held at the main Gwanghwamun gate several times a day, free to watch.

Is it closed on Tuesdays?

Yes, Gyeongbokgung is closed Tuesdays, unlike some other palaces that close Mondays instead.

Is most of it original or reconstructed?

Most standing structures are 19th-century or later reconstructions, since the original was destroyed during Japanese invasions and colonial-era demolitions.

How long does a visit take?

1.5-2 hours to see the main grounds thoroughly.

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